Sidney Crosby breaks his silence about contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins

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Gabriel Sami
September 9, 2024 (7:02 PM)

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There has been plenty of buzz around Sidney Crosby and whether or not he'll extend his contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

With the Penguins missing the playoffs in the last two seasons, some have wondered if the legendary captain might consider a move to another franchise to chase another Stanley Cup. However, Crosby has made it clear that he's optimistic about staying in Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh Penguins captain addressed the ongoing contract extension discussions at the NHL player media tour. According to a report from theScore's John Matisz, Crosby expressed optimism regarding the situation, saying, «I'm pretty optimistic it's going to get done» before the 2024-25 season begins.

«I'm pretty optimistic it's going to get done. I don't know what day specifically, but it's been really positive and it hasn't been a difficult process at all. I'm pretty optimistic that something will get done.»

Crosby further elaborated on the positive nature of the talks, telling The Athletic's Josh Yohe;

"It's hard. You don't really know the trajectory of everything and how you're going to feel mentally, physically. All you can do is really just each year evaluate it and kind of go from there.

"But, I think that when you get to this point, you understand that's more of a reality with every year you play. And you understand that. But I think you just kind of check in with that through the year, or every year, and evaluate it. So that's how I look at it.

"But I feel really good. I'm excited about going to training camp as I was my first year. So, I think the passion and that sort of thing is all there. As long as that's there, then you're willing to put in the work and do everything that it takes to be successful, and hopefully it can be at least a few more." -Sidney Crosby

The 37-year-old is entering the final season of his 12-year, $104.4 million contract, which he signed back in 2012. With no deal yet finalized, there was speculation that he might explore other opportunities if the Penguins missed the playoffs again. However, it appears an extension is close.

Crosby could potentially become an unrestricted free agent in 2025, but fans and pundits alike believe he is poised to remain a Penguin. In July, reports surfaced that Pittsburgh and Crosby were nearing an agreement for an extension, but nothing official has been announced as of yet.

Despite back-to-back playoff misses, Crosby's performance hasn't faltered. Over the past two seasons, he recorded 93 points in 2022-23 and 94 points in 2023-24, proving that age has not diminished his impact on the ice. His efforts earned him top 10 finishes in Hart Trophy and Selke Trophy voting last season.

Legacy in Pittsburgh

Selected first overall in the 2005 NHL Draft, Crosby has led the Penguins to three Stanley Cup championships while earning a long list of accolades. These include two Conn Smythe Trophies and two Hart Trophies. With 19 seasons already under his belt, Crosby is only 128 points away from surpassing Mario Lemieux for the most points in franchise history.

Sidney Crosby's dedication to Pittsburgh appears unwavering, and fans can expect an official announcement regarding his contract extension in the near future. Stay tuned for updates as this iconic player's journey with the Penguins continues.

Source:
Crosby 'pretty optimistic' he'll sign extension before season

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